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"^The Throne of Cupid 


An Operatic Comedy 

By FRED MADISON MYERS 

f » 


THE VALLEY PRESS 
WILKES-BARRE, PA. 
J92J 
iopy z, 










Copyright 1921 

BY 

FRED M. MYERS 
All rights reserved. 


v/ 

OCT 121921 


©CI.D 58830 




CHARACTERS 


Esther Darling, an heiress. 

Geraldine Gushing, her friend. 

Mabel Huntman, approaching thirty but not quite 
an old maid. 

Reginald True, an Englishman. 

Mr. Sheckles, an American business man. 

Captain I. Kissem, alias Carl von Rival, a pirate 
The Sissy Pilots, a group of effeminate males. 
Liberty, a goddess. 

Peace, a goddess. 

Pirates, Young Men and Girls. 



The Throne of Cupid 


ACT I 

This is the Land of Everyday; 

The scene, a park on Sweetheart Bay. 
Afar, where hay and ocean meet. 

That fair domain of love's retreat. 

The Isle of Honeymoon, is seen, 
Resplendent with a magic sheen; 

The same where Cupid's slaves resort 
And Hymen holds his biased court. 
Between the park and Honeymoon 

An isle called Honey, one called Spoon, 
Not far apart, lie near at hand. 

Of easy access from the land; 

In fact, so near a bridge of plank 
Extends with ease from hank to hank. 
O'er which the adolescent youth 


2 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


(Or e'en some older ones, forsooth) 

And budding womanhood can fare 
Quite safely with a little care. 

Off to one side and farther outy 

With reefs and shoals around about. 
And restless waters in between. 

Is Money Island, dimly seen. 

Within the park are rustic seats, 

And floral bowers, and vined retreats; 
Such nooks as loving hearts adore. 

With shadows thick upon the floor. 
Where Cupid's arts are softly wooed. 
And prying eyes can not intrude; 

While poised above on spreading wings. 
The emerald-crested forest sings^ 

Upon the shore, on either hand. 

Two unobtrusive figures stand. 

Or, with a supernatural grace. 

Glide silently from place to place. 

Ah, some there are whose ignorance sees 
But sunlight sifting through the trees, 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


3 


Nor can behold the subtle grace 
Those othei eyes have learned to trace, 
Who know these forms that flit about 
Are goddesses beyond a doubts 
In whom the souVs unerring eyes 
Peace and Liberty recognize. 

Across the scene and in and out 
Some gentle maidens move about, 

In garb of various nations clad. 

They hum with voices softly sweet, 
And yet, withal, so sweetly sad 
'Twould seem, almost, they but repeat 
The sighing of the lonesome trees 
At recollection of the breeze 
That lately wooed their sylvan charms. 
And held them trembling in his arms. 

It is the hmir when day is done. 

But yet the night has not begun; 

When Sol, resplendent in his best. 
Makes merry ere he goes to rest; 

When sordid facts put on disguise. 


4 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


And things unseen materialize; 

When all the vibrant ether teems — 

On earth, in air, and up above — 

With spirits from the land of dreams. 
Unseen except by those in love. 

Now Esther, Mabel, Geraldine, 

In spirits fine, invade the scene.] 

ESTHER 

(Joyously) 

Here we are, girls; yonder lies the bay. 

GERALDINE 

(Gushingly) 

Beautiful Sweetheart Bay! 

Now to be jolly and gay! 

MABEL 

(Rather contemptuously, but with a touch 
of yearning in her voice) 

To me iPs not so very clear 

That we can have such fine times here. 

But I suppose you youngsters do 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


5 


Because the men make much of you. 

No doubt it's sport — but then 
I never could get used to men. 

ESTHER 

(Teasingly) 

Were you to see them more, perhaps you might. 

GERALDINE 

{Playfully, with roguish smile at Mabel) 

Oh, please don’t tease poor Mabel; ’tisn’t right. 
It’s not her fault she has no lover. 

Or that the men have failed to hover 
About, enticed by her maturer form, 

As flies about molasses swarm. 

Who knows what means she may have tried, 

Ere this, to keep them by her side? 

MABEL 

\With some heat) 

Oh, have your fun! Is age a crime? 

At least I’ve not spent half my time 
In chasing them, like some I know, 


6 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


While trying to secure a beau. 

There's Esther with two beaux too much — 

One English and the other Dutch. 

She surely is on pins and needles — 

The way she shifts her smiles, and tweedles — 
Because, to neither quite inclined. 

She's at a loss to know her mind. 

ESTHER 

(poodnaturedly) 

Oh, terrible! Ha — Ha! But let it go; 

We'll get to quarrelling ere we know. 

Let's stop our nonsense. Any Jill 
Can have a Jack or two at will. 

TRIO—ESTHER, MABEL, GERALDINE, 
and CHORUS OF GIRLS 

Esther. 

Near at hand so we scarcely can miss it, 

In the land that is called '‘Everyday", 

Where the sunlight and moonlight may kiss it, 

Is the romantic, fair Sweetheart Bay ; 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


7 


And we girls, though we'd like to explore it, 

And it's treasure-filled isles make our own, 

Are inclined to pretend to ignore it 

t 

Till our own special pilot is known. 

Chorus. 

In the Land of Everyday- 
Lies the mystic Sweetheart Bay; 

Therein, new-weds to beguile. 

The Honeymoon, enchanted isle; 

Isle of treasure great and rare; 

Isle of all the isles most fair; 

Isle to which we'd sail away 
Over magic Sweetheart Bay. 

Mabel. 

I've been told by some friends who have tried it, 
That we'd sail on this bay to our grief, 

In a love boat, unless there to guide it 
Is a pilot who knows shoal and reef; 


8 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


Who can steer past the quicksands of Honey, 
And circle the shallows of Spoon; 

Who can make a fair landing at Money, 

And then strike a straight course to the Moon. 

Geraldine. 

So we're constantly seeking the pilot, 

And to do so, the shore we must skirt ; 

Then, if we're not an unusually shy lot. 

We'll meet some temptation to flirt. 

And it's hardly worth while to resist it. 

While the candidate pilots we sort; 

For we'll surely regret having missed it. 

When at length we arrive safe in port. 

All. 

In the Land of Everyday 
Lies the mystic Sweetheart Bay; 

Therein, new-weds to beguile. 

The Honeymoon, enchanted isle; 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


9 


Isle of treasure great and rare 
Isle of all the isles most fair; 

Isle to which we'd sail away 
Over magic Sweetheart Bay. 

[The Chortcs starts to hum once mcrre, 
Perhaps more sadly than before.] 

ESTHER 

(To Chorus) 

Oh, say, you girls! Pray stop it — do! 
You give me shivers through and through. 

[As fades the light at close of day, 

The humming slowly dies away.] 

Why such a sad strain, anyway — 

Here on the shore of Sweetheart Bay? 

MABEL 

And such doleful faces, why? 


10 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


GERALDINE 

ril bet that I can guess it. 

ESTHER and MABEL 

(Together) 

Try. 

GERALDINE 

I will; for Fve made a discovery 
To make us feel sad past recovery. 
ESTHER and MABEL 

(Together) 

Well? 

GERALDINE 

CanT you see? It's a disgrace! 
There's not a man in all the place! 

[Esther and Mabel glance around, 
Surprised that not a man is found.] 

ESTHER 


Well! Well! 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


11 


MABEL 
Not one! 

GERALDINE 

Not even those 
Who're always ready to propose — 

Our sissy Pilots, always found 

Where e'er a girl would have them 'round. 

MABEL 

Nor Esther's soldier-man — it's queer! 

GERALDINE 

It is. Nor is her sailor here. 

CHORUS 

(Sadly) 

Yes, Sweetheart Bay is sad today 
Because the men have gone away. 

We fear they ne'er may come again, 
Therefore we hum this sad refrain. 


[They start to hum] 


12 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


GERALDINE 

{Impatiently) 

Oh, stop it! You get on my nerves. 

I canT see what purpose it serves. 

[Chorus stops humming] 

ESTHER 

{To Chorus) 

What has happened? What’s the meaning of it all? 
Why are the men not here as usual? 

CHORUS 

{Shaking their heads) 

We cannot say what has transpired, 

For we, as yet, have not inquired; 

But this to us is very clear: 

That not a single man is here. 

GERALDINE 

If not a single one, then pray. 

Are all the married ones away? 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


13 


CHORUS 

The married men? Oh, such a question! 
It carries such a wrong suggestion. 

GERALDINE 

No, no! Not so! You misconstrue 
My words to mean what ne'er would do. 
The place for married men, tis' clear, 

[Pointing toward Honeymoon Island] 

Is yonder with their wives, not here. 
This park and bay belong to those 
Who still in single bliss repose. 

Yet who, with more or less desire. 

Unto the married state aspire. 

CHORUS 

This park and bay belong to those, etc. 

ESTHER 

But why permit our thought to travel 
Such a path? 'Twill not unravel 


14 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


The tangle of a situation 

That fills us all with consternation. 

CHORUS 

'Tis sad that those who could divert us, 
The men we count on, should desert us. 

GERALDINE 

Who can explain it? 

CHORUS 

Who? 

MABEL 

The only proper thing to do 
Is— 

ESTHER and GERALDINE 

{Together) 

What? 

CHORUS 

Make haste and say. 

MABEL 

To explain and drive away 
Or confirm our growing fear, 

\ 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


15 


I suggest that we should hear 
What Peace and Liberty can tell. 

CHORUS 

A fine suggestion! Aye, Tis well 
That to these guardians we should go 
For explanation of our woe. 

ESTHER 

Why, thaPs as plain as an open door. 
Why didn't we think of it before? 

GERALDINE 

(Throwing her arms about Mabel) 

Ah, Mabel, you're a gem, a jewel! 

Of course you're right — you always are. 
How stupid we, to act the fool 
While yonder stands our guiding star! 
Liberty, at least, can shed 
Enlightenment upon our dread; 

Or means it naught, the brilliant light 
That from her torch is shed at night? 


16 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


CHORUS 

To Peace and Liberty we'll go, 

For one or both is sure to know 
What attraction, show or fracas. 

Has made the men all thus forsake us. 

[The cause of their distress to learn, 

To Peace and Ldherty all turn.] 

ESTHER 

(To Liberty) 

Spirit of Freedom, Guardian of the Shore, 

Pray tell us why the men are here no more. 

With thy Torch of Knowledge please illuminate 
The gloom wherein we dwell. To us the reason state 
Why we are left to pine upon the land, perhaps to 
perish. 

By those false men, whom yet we love and cherish 

CHORUS 

Explain! Make plain what dire event 
Has thus for us our prospects rent. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


17 


LIBERTY 

{Holding aloft her torch) 

You all know 
That this is so : 

On yonder bay no girl can go 
Unless some man has her in tow. 

And this, too, 

You know is true: 

No man would dare to venture there 
Without a lady in his care. 

ESTHER, MABEL and GERALDINE 

(In concert) 

Yes 5 that we know. 

CHORUS 
All that we know. 

LIBERTY 
Note, then this truth: 

Once, in his youth. 

Sir Cupid, then a god of power, 
Was tempted, in a reckless hour. 


18 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


To risk his throne by casting stars — 

As men throw dice — ^with Warrior Mars. 
Mars won the bet. 

And then and yet. 

By the rash terms that then were made. 

Sir Cupid god of love has staid. 

And stays, by sufferance of man and maid. 

CHORUS 

{With wonder) 

What's this? Could ought be stranger? 
A god of love, his throne in danger! 

LIBERTY 

If one generation fail 
To the Honeymoon to sail, 

Man and maid, thus re-installing 
Cupid in his lofty caDing, 

The god of love he'd cease to be. 

CHORUS 


Yes, yes; we see. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


19 


LIBERTY 

Therefore, when Youth before the altar 
Hesitates, and seems to falter; 

When on Sweetheart Bay serene 
There's scarce a young man to be seen, 
'Tis sure that Mars has been renewing 
His efforts for our god's undoing, 

CHORUS 

'Tis sad, 'tis cruel. 

That we must suffer from this duel! 

LIBERTY 

Both Peace and I have seen, of late. 

Mars' emissaries. Greed and Hate 
And Envy, prowling round about; 

And we. Sir Cupid's staunch adherents. 
Trembled at their fierce appearance, 

ESTHER 

(Aside to Geraldine and Mabel) 

What! When three vile dwarfs assemble, 
That Peace and Liberty should tremble! 


20 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


CHORUS 

There’s strife afoot when they’re about. 
Why did you fail to keep them out? 
LIBERTY 
What’s that you say? 

It could not be done. 

With Inspiration gone away, 

They were three to one; 

For Peace, though expert at persuasion. 

Is useless quite on such occasion. 

These dwarfs, though sneaking, mean and small. 
Are wily, quick, and strong, withal. 

MABEL 

Have these, then, lured the men away? 

CHORUS 

Oh, tell us, pray; will our men return or stay? 

LIBERTY 

Who can foretell what grave disaster 
Hate may bring forth to please his master. 
With Greed and Envy to urge him on? 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


21 


'Tis said they have begun a war 
The like of which was ne^er before. 

CHORUS 

A war? Oh, woe! What carnage dire; 

What severed ties; what hail of fire; 

These w’ords forever signify! 

Oh, war! Oh, woe! Our hopes are shattered; 
Our hearts are bruised; our sweethearts, scattered. 
On battlefields to bleed and die! 

PEACE 

{Extending her arms, palms down) 

Be quiet, friends. Allay your grief. 

For this fell thing is past belief: 

That evil spirits can conspire. 

By any stress of sword or fire. 

Thus easily to overthrow 
The sure effects of Cupid's bow, 

Or eventually to sever 

Bonds that draw and bind forever 

Man to maid, and maid to man. 


22 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


When used as only Cupid can; 

Bonds the Supreme One did bestow 
On Cupid many years ago. 

[Comes from a distance, heard by all. 
Beating drum and trumpet call. 

Peace shrinks and trembles 

As though the sound had hurt; 

All are startled, listening ; 

Liberty’s alert.] 

ESTHER 

Ah, Peace, I fear that you dissemble; 

Or why should such sound make you tremble? 

MABEL 

No, Esther; Peace has hardly stated 
That this war v/ill be abated ; 

Only that its end must be 
Our Sir Cupid’s victory. 

[The sound of trumpet and of drum. 

Heard again, has nearer come. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


23 


Geraldine now runs aside to peer 
Intently where the view is clear.] 

GERALDINE 

{Calling to the others after a moment) 
Oh, girls, our fears have ruled us 
To such extent that sound has fooled us; 
The thing we took for call to battle. 

With clash of arms and cannonading. 

Is but the foolish din and rattle 
Of some old friends, this way parading. 

ESTHER 

Now don’t be gay. 

GERALDINE 

It’s as I say. 

[All hut Peace and Liberty 
Now run toward Geraldine 
To look where she is looking, 

To see what she has seen.] 


24 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


MABEL 

Yes, Geraldine has spoken true, 

For yonder I can see them, too. 

[The noise of drum and trumpet 
stop. They hear, 

Instead, the sound of footsteps 
drawing near.] 

ESTHER 

Those Sissy Pilots! Let them come, 

And blow the trumpet, beat the drum! 
Our grief to them we'll never tell, 

But, as usual, greet them well. 

GERALDINE 

What difference if our worry be discerned. 
As far as these, our sissies, are concerned? 
That is, I think, beyond the question; 

Yet Esther makes a good sugestion. 

\ 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


25 


Ah, who can say what friends may try 
To spend an hour on Sweetheart Bay — 
To plead their cause, to say good-bye — 
Before to war they go away? 

They have enough to worry o^er; 

Tis ours to such to bring relief 
From troubled care, nor make it more 
By exhibition of our grief. 

These friendly pilots will provide 
Good practice in the tragic art 
That with a joyous smile can hide 
The anguish of a breaking heart. 

MABEL 

Tis well! Let none seem sad. 

Nor yet should any seem too glad 
To see them, or— 


GERALDINE 

{Interrupting) 

Hush! Hush! No more! 


26 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


Quick! Scatter, and appear 
As usual. They’re here. 

[ Now hastily they separate, 

And, grouped in twos and threes. 

Some lolling on the benches, wait. 

Some strolling 'neath the trees. 

Soon Esther, Mabel, Geraldine 
Exeunt through a bower of green.] 

[Enter Pilots foppishly attired. 

Each according to his nationality. 

And at each side a toy sword. 

Upon each head a military cap. 

The one behind the leader beats a drum. 
Another blows a trumpet while they march 
Around the scene, then pause before a group 
Of girls, and pausing, form in line, salute.] 

LEADER OF PILOTS 

Ladies, we salute you. 

And make this explanation 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


27 


Of our recent absence: 

Each unto his nation, 

In this grave hour of trouble, 
Himself has freely offered. 

Alas! None would accept 
The services we proffered. 

CHORUS OF PILOTS 

Alas! None would accept 
The services we proffered. 

LEADER OF PILOTS 

Though W’e would soldiers be. 

As all can plainly see. 

We are compelled, against our will. 
To act the parts of pilots still. 

But better ones no craft can steer. 
Than we who stand before you here. 
(To his followers) 

Men, doff your caps; 

[They do f-o.] 

Draw swords! Salute! 


28 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


[They draw and raise their loy swords aloft, 

Then lower them with an elaborate hovj. 

The girls all laugh and clap their hands in glee.] 

LEADER OF PILOTS 

(To the drummer) 

You, Courtwell, drum! 

{To the trumpeter) 

You, Holder, toot! 

[They do so badly.] 

Now all mark step. 

Forward, march! 

[A time or two they march around, 

Then stop as once before.] 

DIVERSION— PILOTS and GIRLS 
Pilots. 

We are pilots seeking service; 

Naught can from a duty swerve us. 

Please admire us. 

[They strut.] 

If desirous. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


29 


You may hire us, 

And require us 
Worthy credentials to show; 

For no matter where the start is, 

Any place that on the chart is. 

Safely passing each and every danger, we can go. 

Girls. {With an over elaborate courtesy) 
Dear Sirs, we are pleased to meet you. 

And thus we proceed to greet you, 

[The girls advance and shake hands loftily.] 

While we're waiting. 

Hesitating, 

And debating 
Just what rating 
Each in our service should take. 

Pray stay till some inner vision 
Prompts us as to what decision. 

In regard to such a vital question, we should make. 


[Girls retire.] 


30 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


Pilots. {Advancing) 

Yes, thank you; we will stay 
To hear what you may say. 

We certainly like to linger longer 
Where such fair ones dilly-dally 
With various idle speculations; 

And verily find 
Ourselves inclined 

To pilot such a dutiful lot of beautiful maids. 

Girls. [Separating invitingly) 

You may demonstrate, 

While you the verdict wait. 

What you can do 

To merit elevation to such high estate. 

Pilots. {Each taking a girl by the hand) 

To give full satisfaction. 

Then, in action 

Each of us will make attempt to show 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


31 


That he is suited for the pilot 
Of the craft he has in tow. 

[Pilots and girls dance out of the scene. 

Enter Esther, Mabel and Geraldine.] 

QUARTET— ESTHER, MABEL, GERALDINE 
and MR. SHECKLES. 

Geraldine. 

IPs quite disconcerting — 

Fm filled with dismay; 

Our prospects for flirting 
Have all gone astray. 

Esther. 

The present's a nightmare; 

The future's as bad. 

For things are not right where 
No men can be had. 

Mabel. 

Why all this complaining? 

I'm older, forsooth, 


32 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


Yet hope is remaining 
While still I have youth. 

Esther. 

Ah, youth is a time of enchantment 

Mabel. 

The fairyland epoch of life. 

Geraldine. 

Each boy from the time of enpantment, 
Begins his gay search for a wife. 

[Enter Sheckles.] 

Sheckles. (As he enters) 

Each infantile lassie 
Has notions quite classy, 

And puts on long dresses as soon as she can. 
With luring, shy glances 
The boys she entrances. 

The while she is learning to capture a man. 

All. 

Ah, youth is a time of enchantment, etc. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


33 


Sheckles. 

Good evening, ladies; pleased to meet you. 
Are you surprised to see me here? 


Geraldine. 

Surprised, perhaps; but glad to greet you, 
Who seldom in our midst appear. 


Sheckles. 

Just so. Miss Gushing. 

Busy, rushing — 

Great transactions every day. 
Though Fve the mind to. 
Time can't find to 
Dally much on Sweetheart Bay. 
Can't stop for dreaming — 
Must be scheming 


34 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


How to beat the money game; 

For I must collar 
Every dollar, 

If Fd live up to my name. 

[Enter GirlS) Pilots, and Men in military attire.] 

Geraldine. (To Esther and Mabel) 

He is a broker. 

Esther. (To Mabel and Geraldine) 

He's quite a joker. 

Mabel. (To Esther and Geraldine) 

Why do you suppose he came? 

Esther, Mabel, Geraldine. 

To gather treasure 
Must be pleasure, 

When you live up to your name. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


35 


SHECKLES 

Can't stop for 
dreaming — 

Must be schem- 
ing 

How to beat 
the money- 
game; 

For I must col- 
lar 

Every dollar, 

If Fd live up to 
my name. 


ENSEMBLE 

EST., MAB., 
GER. 

He is a broker, 
Quite a joker — 
Why do you 
suppose he 
came? 

To gather treas- 
ure 

Must be pleas- 
ure. 

When you live 
up to your 
name. 


CHORUS 

He lets no 
dreaming 
Stop his schem- 
ing; 

He would beat 
the .money 
game. 

He must collar 
Every dollar. 
Must this Mr. 
what's his 
name. 


SONG— MR. SHECKLES and CHORUS 
Sheckles. 

Sheckles I'm called, and for sheckels I strive; 

In sheckels I glory; by sheckels I thrive; 


36 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


To sheckels I bow, and with sheckels I stand; 

For sheckels make Sheckles a power in the land. 

Chorus. 

To Sheckles, the man, add sheckels of gold. 

And who can foretell what the future will hold? 

Sheckles. 

A fine lot of sheckels I, Sheckles, have stored; 

And sheckels make sheckels to add to the hoard. 
But Sheckles, with all of his sheckels, needs more; 
For Sheckles must furnish the sheckels for war. 

Chorus. 

This Sheckles has sheckels, but still he needs more; 
He thinks he's expected to finance the war. 

GERALDINE 

Very fine, Mr. Sheckles; but is it quite true 
That the nation for money is looking to you? 

SHECKLES 

That is hardly the case. The urgent need 
Is to make war munitions with greatest speed. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


37 


Though a war is a bad, bad thing at best, 

Still it does furnish chances to invest — 

That^s why Pm here. To help equip 
The nation for the coming strife 
And aid by her companionship 
My worthy self, I seek a wife. 

Who among you is possessed 
Of largest fortune, looks the best. 

And has an amiable disposition? 

Who speaks for such a rare commission? 

GERALDINE 

{Ironically) 

At least, Mr. Sheckles, your statement is honest; 

And your specifications are certainly modest. 

CHORUS 

{Among themselves) 

He seeks a rich wife, 

A companion for life. 


38 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


MABEL 

{Aside to the Girls) 

Fd stand no chance; my fortune is small. 

ESTHER 

{Aside to Geraldine) 

He's handsome. 

GERALDINE 
{Aside to Esther) 

Ah! His choice on you will fall. 

SHECKLES 
{Looking at Esther) 

Will no one reply, 

No one name the fair belle? 

Well, one I espy 
Whose appearance bids well. 

[He approaches Esther.] 
CHORUS 
{Among themselves) 

To Esther Darling, see, he goes. 

No doubt he'll here and now propose. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


39 


GERALDINE 

{Rather pettishly to Chorus Girls) 

Were his requirements less, 

You'd like the chance, I guess. 

CHORUS GIRLS 

{Disdainfully) 

Oh, no! Not us! 

CHORUS MEN 

{Smiling) 

It's funny. 

CHORUS 

Now we will see how money 
To money can make love. 

SONG— SHECKLES and CHORUS 

Sheckles. {To Esther ) 

Fair maid, I am told 
That your fortune is great; 


40 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


Before you, behold 
One who seeks such a mate. 

[Esther seems about to answer, 
Sheckles checks her by a gesture,] 

No; wait! Not so quick, 

Lest you make a mistake; 
For know, you must stick, 

If my offer you take. 

Chorus. 

Oh, yes; you must stick, 

If his offer you take. 

Sheckles. 

Though I have some gold. 

And more gold I require. 
You ought to be told 
What else I desire. 

My wife should have pride 
Of a dignified mold. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


41 


That would, at my side, 

The name '^Sheckles'' uphold. 

Chorus. 

That would, at his side. 

The name ‘'Sheckles'' uphold. 

Sheckles. 

Her mind should be keen, 

And her instincts, refined; 

Her temper, serene; 

And her heart, true and kind. 

With these there should go 
Perfect bodily health. 

That a Sheckles or so 

We might add to our wealth. 

Chorus. 

That a Sheckles or so 
They may add to their wealth. 


42 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


ESTHER 

Pray cease, Mr. Sheckles; you've said quite enough. 
Though your purpose is fair, yet your method is 
rough. 

GERALDINE 

Their talk is tiresome. Let's away 
To stroll a while along the bay. 

[Exeunt all but Esther and Sheckles.] 

SHECKLES 

My offer, ill stated, I pray you, don't spurn; 

For unto our mutual advantage 'twould turn. 

ESTHER 

The best laid plans quite often fail ; 

And, furthermore. I'm not for sale. 

But grant the advantage to be real; 

That you, yourself, make some appeal; 

Yet still I feel compelled to say 
I'll not be wooed in such a way. 

[Enter Carl von Rival and Reginald True; 
From opposite sides they come to view. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


43 


They meet at center stage, and there 
They stand, and at each other glare.] 

ESTHER 

Here come two friends of mine, who cannot hope, 

In ways financial, e'er with you to cope. 

But who, though by the green-eyed monster cursed. 
In amorous methods are some better versed. 

Your education, so neglected 
In ways of love, should be directed. 

One of these friends Fll have impart 
Instruction in the gentle art. 

SHECKLES 

{Rather grouchily) 

You needn't bother. 

ESTHER 

But I will. You see, 

A loveless marriage don't appeal to me: 

And, yet, I like you — oh, enough to ask 
A friend to undertake the task 


44 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


Of teaching you that art above 
All others — how to fall in love. 

Herr Carl von Rival, there, can tell 
It all — and tell it well; 

Exactly how it should be done. 

Just how a wife may best be won. 

In fact, his scientiffic mind has fixed 
In ordered sequence, details mixed 
And multitudinous; has reduced love's law 
To an unchanging formula. 

[To Rival and True:] 

You boys stop your glaring, and come over here. 
Where to you I can talk without having the fear, 
At each word that I utter, of straining a cord 
Of my voice apparatus. 

[They come.] 

Now, can't you afford 
To shake hands and be friends? Do be pleasant 
while! 

I dislike to converse with a man who can't smile. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


45 


[Each puckers his face in design arabesque^ 

That might pass for a smile of the genus Burlesque.] 
There! That is much better. Now, let me present 
Mr. Sheckles, a broker, with wealth like a Czar. 

He has done me the honor, to ask my consent 
To accept of his name and a place in his car. 

RIVAL 

(Aside) 

Ach! The conceited moneybags! I wonder how he 
stood. 

TRUE 

(Aside) 

Proposed to her? Of course! At least, his taste was 
good. 

ESTHER 

(Continuing the introduction) 

Mr. Sheckles, Captain Carl von Rival, 

[They how stifly.] 

And Sir Reginald True. 


46 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


TRUE 

{Extending his hand to Sheckles) 

Mr. Sheckles — That the name? Ah, glad to meet you; 
How do you do? 

Rival, there, is half a cad — 

Pm not that sort, ah! don't you know? 

So let's be friends, although you add 
Another string to Esther's bow. 

It seems to me I've heard of you — 

Ah, yes, 'tis true! 

A scheme — financial; rather new — 

Not long ago you carried through. 

O'er which, at home, was much ado — 

In circles where much riches go 
As proof of brains — ah! don't you know? 

SHECKLES 
{To True) 

Glad to know you. So you've heard 
Of me? Upon my word. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


47 


Fm not surprised. 

I have devised 
So many schemes financial, 
Wrought in detail circumstantial, 
That, in this money-getting game, 
“S heckles'' has become a name 
To conjure with. If ever I can be 
Of service to you, call on me. 

Don't fail 

ESTHER 

(Interrupting) 

Oh, Mr. Sheckles! Please! 

SHECKLES 

(Continuing j to True.) 

To come — 


ESTHER 

(Interrupting) 

I say! 

Stop talking business. Here, on Sweetheart Bay! 


48 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


[To Rival:) 

Now, Carl, a favor I shall ask; 

I know you^ll not refuse the task. 

RIVAL 

(gallantly) 

At your command, as always. I 
One thing only could deny; 

Nor that to you need I impart; 

You’ll find the answer in your heart. 

ESTHER 

{With a courtesy) 

I think I understand. Now, the request I make 
Is this: That Mr. Sheckles you will take 
To some secluded spot, and there impart 
The rudiments of the love-making art. 

I think you’ll find that he, as yet. 

Don’t even know the alphabet. 

[Both True and Rival look relieved. 

Then Rival, not to he deceived, 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


49 


Assumes a look not quite so hland. 

And twirls his mustache with his hand. 

A quizical glance he gives to True, 

And then looks Esther through and through.] 

ESTHER 

( Nodding assent to Rival’s unspoken question) 
Yes, Carl; that is it; that’s exactly the thing 
I desire. 

RIVAL 

On a single condition Fll give True his fling, 
And retire. 

ESTHER 

And you say that condition is — ? 

RIVAL 

That you refrain 
From making rash promises unto this swain; 
For a chance, at least equal, I wish to retain. 

TRUE 

Now, I declare ! 

That’s hardly fair. 


50 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


Some minutes more, 

And off to war 
ril have to go. 

Fd hoped, you know — 

RIVAL 

{Interrupting) 

Therein we^re alike, if alike in no more. 

I, also, had hoped— 

ESTHER 

{Interrupting) 

But you, too, go to war. 

RIVAL 

The time I can spend at your court 
Is exceedingly short — 

[ He looks at his watch,] 

Exactly ten minutes; then I must away. 

One half of this time. 

On condition just stated. 

With Sheckles as student, Fll spend as you say. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


51 


0 maiden sublime, 

From your smile separated. 

ESTHER 

Very well, Carl; then let it be so. 

RIVAL 

Come on, Mr. Sheckles. Time's passing; we’ll go. 

[Exeunt Rival and Sheckles.] 

ESTHER 
(To True) 

Now Regie, some favor, you'll grant, I have shown. 
For fully five minutes the field is your own. 

What have you to offer whereby my affections. 
Divided and scattered in many directions. 

Perhaps might be turned — oh, of course. 

Toward yourself; and, a unified force. 

Said affections, united, be lured from their play 
In the b3rways of flirting, wherein they now stray. 
To a dignified course down a single straight way? 


52 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


TRUE 

If your so-called affections are really divided, 

If you smile upon more than one beau. 

Yet are truly in love, then, it must be decided. 
You're in love with yourself, don't you know? 

ESTHER 

With myself? Not at all; 

But, perhaps, with you all. 

TRUE 

The heart where divided affections hold sway. 
Knows no more of love than the night does of day. 
Ah, would that I could, by some wonderful art. 
Awaken the love still asleep in your heart ! 

ESTHER 

I fear. Regie dear, that you make a mistake; 
For Love, in my heart, if he isn't awake. 

Is certainly not in sweet slumber reposing. 

He is busily dreaming. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


53 


TRUE 

Is his sleeping but seeming? 

ESTHER 

Perhaps he is dozing. 

TRUE 

Let him doze. You're awake; 

And to you I shall make 
My appeal. 

SONG— TRUE 

If the riches of earth I possessed, 

And the wealth of the sea were mine; 

If I had all the treasure, unguessed. 

That is hidden behind the star-shine; 

And all this I should offer to thee. 

In a purse silver-spun by the moon. 

Would it turn thy affection to me. 

Make thy heart with my heart beat in tune? 

Ah, an offer far greater I make. 

Greater far in the wealth of the soul; 


54 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


I offer a heart that's awake 
With a love that's unsullied and whole. 
Take, then, the best that is mine: 

Take my heart — it beats only for thee; 
Take my love — it is already thine; 

Take my life, take my all — take me! 


If I knew how to gather all sweets 
From the flowers, like the honey bees; 

And could capture the rapture that beats 
In the songs of the birds in the trees; 

And should weld these, for thee, in a strain 
Harmonized with light-chords, multihued, 
From the sunset's symphonic refrain — 

Wouldst thou yield? Would thy heart be subdued? 


Ah, an offer of music I bring. 

Sweeter far to the ears of the soul; 
The song that a true heart can sing 
Of a love that's unsullied and whole. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


55 


Take, then, the best that is mine: 

Take my heart — it beats only for thee; 
Take my love — it is already thine; 

Take my life, take my all — take me! 

[Von Rival, having entered during this refrain^ 
Has lingered at a distance^ smiling in disdain.] 

RIVAL 

{Coming forward) 

Ha, ha, ha! 0, valliant True! 

Such wondrous things as you would do! 
Your headlong rush 
Through wordy slush 
Of supersentimental gush 
And bombast so inane. 

But shows defect 
Of intellect. 

Yet, oh, the passionate effect 
False hearts expect to gain! 


56 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


[Mimicking True:] 

Oh, take my love — 

Because it's yours already yet; 

Take me, my dove — 

Because Pm all that you can get! 

ESTHER 

(To Rival) 

What has become of Mr. Sheckles? 
Why do you return alone? 

RIVAL 

He's growling o^er his recent lesson. 
Like a dog that gnaws a bone. 

For arts of Sweetheart Bay 
He seems to have desire. 

Yet finds, alas! that they 
Much practice will require. 

And yet, from what I overheard 
Of all this mushy gush absurd. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


57 


As I came up, I am inclined 
To think he's not so far behind. 

[To True:] 

Love is a science, young man, 

A part of the science of life; 

Without a methodical plan. 

You'll never attain to a wife. 

And love, though a science 
Of human alliance. 

That deals in poetics 
And gentle esthetics. 

Still has its immutable law. 

There's nothing spasmodic. 

Much less the chaotic. 

Just take each essential 
In order sequential — 

This is the conclusion you'll draw: 

When E is the woman, and T is the man. 

And N is his need, you will see 
That 0 is the orator, making appeal. 

In over-much language, for what he might steal. 


58 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


Work it out by the old Rule-of-three: 

Then N is to E as T is to 0, 

And, according to rule, the answer is NO. 

TRUE 

{Quietly, with suppressed anger) 

Herr Rival, Fm minded to talk very plain. 

If my song, as you say, is absurd and inane. 
This science of yours is but drivelling drool, 
[More incisively:] 

And the man who has stated it talks like a fool 

ESTHER 

{Laughing and playfully shaking her finger at them) 
You'd better stop. 'Twould be a shame. 

By quarrelling, to spoil the game. 

I am amused, for neither knows 
The culture of this lovely rose; 

What soil, attention, sun and shower 
Are needed to produce a flower. 

[Enter hastily Mabel, Geraldine, Girls, 
Pilots, Gentlemen. The Girls are agitated.] 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


59 


GERALDINE 

{Excitedly, with maoy pauses fcrr breath) 

I really don't know if Pm frightened or not. 

Oh, my! Such a fiercely grotesque-looking lot ! 

ESTHER 

Who? 

GERALDINE 

{Pointing) 

Oh, some sailors — out there — such strange men I 

RIVAL 

{Aside) 

My crew ! They'll be ready for business when — 

LEADER OF PILOTS 

We were really afraid of them, they are so rough. 

MABEL 

I'm quite all a-tremble. 

ESTHER 

You silly I 
[A bugle call is heard,] 


60 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


TRUE 

IPs tough ! 

RIVAL 

(Aside) 

These fair ones some time on my gay ship shall 
spend; 

But ril carry my acting quite through to the end. 

[To Esther:] 

Ach! Heines leibschen, now must I go; 

Of what I here feel, oh, so little you know ! 

[ He clasps his hands over his heart.] 

But you'll understand— ah, yes! You'll discern. 

In war much may happen; but, if I return — 

ESTHER 

(Gravely) 

If you return — 

TRUE 

Exactly. That's the way of war. 

It may be that you'll see us here no more. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


61 


This Rival and myself, perhaps, may meet 
In battle; then Fll run him through — 

ESTHER 

You're horrid! I repeat. 

You're horrid! 

RIVAL 


Ach ! I fear him not. And, after all. 
It's most unlikely we shall meet. 


[ He looks toward the place where the sailors were seen. 
Then masks a smile. The bugle call is heard again.] 


TRUE 

Hark ! That's the final call. 


CHORUS OF MEN 

'Tis duty's call, and we must heed it. 
Though but to do our bit and die. 
The beast of war needs men to feed it — 
'Tis ours to do, nor question why. 
Give us your blessing. We shall need it 
Out yonder where the wild shells fly. 


62 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


And breathe a prayer — let Cupid speed it I 
O maidens fair, good-bye. . . . Good-bye ! 

CHORUS OF GIRLS 

When duty calls you, we must share it. 

Tis yours to go; Tis yours to do; 

Tis ours to wait alone, and bear it. 

As best we may, the long nights through; 
To still the heart when doubt shall tear it; 

To work and pray and watch for you — 
Out yonder may the stars declare it ! — 

0 warriors bold, adieu. . . . Adieu ! 

[As the Girls are singing thiSy the Men march out, 
All humming as they go; and, as they disappear. 
The Girls all kneel, with arms outstreached 
Toward the departing ones, and softly, very softly. 
Hum the sad refrain with which the act began,] 


End of Act I. 


ACT II 

Some time has passed; hut fast how long 
Can matter little to our song; 

So what therein transpired we skip, 
And come aboard the pirate ship 
Of Captain Kissem, Social Whirl,” 
Which, well within the reefs and swirl 
Of rougher waters that abound 
The shores of Money Isle around. 

Now comes to anchor, as the day. 

Midst sombre shadows, glides away. 
The Crew are louming a sail. 

That shows the marks of fight or gale. 

Or both, perhaps, and needs repair. 
They're casting anchor, and, with care. 
About the deck, the while they sing. 


64 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


Where it belongs they place each thing. 

The Captain struts about, meanwhile, 

With now and then a fleeting smile 
Of satisfaction o'er some prize. 

He pauses once or twice, and eyes 
The shore, attentive to the scene. 

Then sweeps the waters in between. 

Now, with the coming of the night. 

In Money Town appears a light, 

And then another; then some more 
Flash, one by one, from yonder shore. 

And frcm the ship there can be seen, 

Splashing the waves that intervene, 

The gleaming glint and flickering glow, 
Flashing, fading, to and fro. 

Of a host of nimble fairy feet. 

That trip the light fantastic toe 
In a dance that only the fairies know. 

And the gems on their toes, at each step, repeat 
The fire that comes from the lights on shore. 
And scatter it over the dancing-floor !] 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


65 


CHORUS OF PIRATES 

Ye-ho! Ye-ho! Ye-ho! 

Let the halliards go ! 

The sail comes fluttering down. 
Ye-ho ! Ye-ho ! Ye-ho ! 

The joy we soon shall know — 
Out there in Money Town, 
Ye-ho ! 


Ye-ho! Ye-ho! Ye-ho!- 
Neptune is asleep, 

So drop the anchor down. 
Ye-ho! Ye-ho! Ye-ho! 
To-night our watch we’ll keep — 
Out there in Money Town, 
Ye-ho! 


[The ship in shape from stem to sterUy 
The Crew now to the Captain turn,] 


66 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


SONG— CAPTAIN KISSEM and CREW 
Kissem. 

What is the use of a life of toil, 

When the world is full of riches ? 

Crew. 

Why should we toil for riches ? 

Kissem. 

Why should we spoil our clothes, and soil 
Our hands in a nabob's ditches ? 

Crew. 

Why should we work in ditches ? 

Kissem. 

The cure for all ills 
That oppression distills; 

The magic. 

Though tragic. 

To pay all our bills. 

To grant every craving just when we desire it, 
To fill every need 
With a wonderful speed — 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


67 


Is the daring, 

All-sharing, 

No-work-for-me creed 
Of the radical Bolshevik Pirate. 

Crew. 

The cure for all ills, etc. 

Kissem. 

Why should the man who possesses the brain 
Be allowed to have the money ? 

Crew. 

Why should brains have money ? 

Kissem. 

Why should we strain, like bees, in vain. 
While Wealth gets all the honey ? 

Crew. 

Why should we gather honey ? 

Kissem. 

Why should the fair ones smile on him 
Who wears starched shirts and collars ? 

Crew. 

Why do the girls love collars ? 


68 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


Kissem. 

Why should he skim red lips, that brim 
With sweets, because of dollars ? 

Crew. 

Why the red lips for dollars ? 

All. 

The cure for all ills, etc. 

Kissem. 

Aye, men, 

A beautiful creed is the Bolshevik plan 
Of running the world for the common man — 

If you happen to be a pirate; 

For then 

The credulous crew of all work you imbue 
With the notion of plenty-and-little-to-do. 

And that only when they desire it. 

You tell them they rule, and you promise them peace 
When the nation owns all; and they follow like geese — 
If you happen to be a pirate. 

Crew. 

You tell them they rule, etc. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


69 


Kissem. 

And say ! 

The rich of their long-hoarded wealth you will strip, 
And load it aboard of your new-fangled ship — 

If you happen to be a pirate; 

And they, 

The wealthy, shall shed, if they wish to be fed. 

All the indolent sloth of a soft, downy bed. 

And work as your need may require it. 

You capture the place of the overthrown lords. 

And rule by the grace of the bamboozled hordes — 

If you happen to be a pirate. 

Crew. 

You capture the place, etc. 

First Pirate. 

Oh, aye! 

And we have adopted the Bolshevik way. 

Second Pirate. 

It works very well here on Sweetheart Bay. 

All. 

For we happen to be brave pirates. 


70 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


First Pirate. 

That^s why 

We captured the fair from the park over there. 

Second Pirate. 

And we stowed them aboard with a sedulous care. 

All. 

For we're strong and yet gentle pirates. 

First Pirate. 

Their fate they berate, with a bearing quite cold. 
Kissem. 

In a while they will smile on the love of the bold. 

All. 

And we happen to be bold pirates. 

[They tread the deck in dance grotesque — 

A sort of hornpipe humoresque, 

Where touches of the Scalp-dance show, 

Mixed up with Spanish Bolero.] 

Crew. 

The cure for all woes 
That the sad lover knows; 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


71 


The art 
Of the heart, 

And the way to propose; 

The prize 
Of bright eyes, 

And the way to acquire it; 

The wine of red lips, how to sip at your need — 
All are told 
In the bold, 

Come-and-love-me-quick creed 
Of the Bolshevik Sweetheart Bay Pirate. 


[Esther and Mabel and Geraldine, 
Sissy Pilots and Girls invade the scene.] 


KISSEM 

Ah, here they come, our string of pearls. 
Our treasured, though disdainful, girls. 
Fair trophies of our Bolshevism ! 


72 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


ESTHER 

{Ironically) 

Fine gentleman and brave are you; 
Likewise your most attractive crew, 
Most noble Captain Kissem ! 

FIRST PIRATE 

{Proudly j to his fellows of the crew) 
Our captain, Captain Kissem ! 

GIRLS 

{Chanting mockingly) 

O noble Captain Kissem ! 

SISSY PILOTS 

{In a sing-song manner) 

You and your unattractive crew. 
Ignoble Captain Kissem ! 

FIRST PIRATE 

O^er seas disturbed by female gales 
He charts the course, we trim the sails. 
And all the reefs, we miss 'em. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


73 


SECOND PIRATE 

Within Love Harbor soon we swim — 
That's why we have elected him 
Our leader, Captain Kissem. 

THIRD PIRATE 

Our skillful Captain Kissem ! 

GIRLS 

Most sinful Captain Kissem ! 
SISSY PILOTS 
That's why they have elected him 
To be their Captain Kissem. 

KISSEM 

As captain of this noble crew. 

I'll tell you ladies what to do: 

Wed us Bolshevistikly 1 

ESTHER 

You mean, by that, that we should be 
The common wives of these we see. 
Loving communistically ? 


74 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


GIRLS 

(Shocked) 

Wed them communistically ! 

SISSY PILOTS 

The common wives of these to be, 
Married communistically ! 

FIRST PIRATE 

What fairer can we pirates do 
Than offer thus our hearts to you ? 
Accept us — we expect it. 

SECOND PIRATE 

"Tis one for all, and all for one — 
That's how this social ship is run. 
Think well, ere you reject it. 

THIRD PIRATE 

Beware, if you reject it! 

GIRLS 

We fear we must reject it. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


75 


SISSY PILOTS 

That's how most every ship would run, 
If pirates could direct it. 

KISSEM 

We would that your most alluring charms 
Come, unreluctant, to our arms; 

But should you choose to say us nay. 

We'll find, be sure, another way. 

Such marriage, though rare 
In the tales that are told 
Of the strict days of old. 

Is legal and fair 
In the days that unfold. 

Like a scroll that's unrolled. 

Where the radical, tragical. 

Free-for-all, magical 
Rule Bolshevistik is holding full sway. 

GERALDINE 

Such rule is for beasts and things that roll. 
Fly, crawl or creep, but have no soul; 


76 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


It should not, it shall not have a part 
In the love affairs of the human heart ! 

KISSEM 

(With a quiziccU smile) 

And yet it does — you'll find it true; 

And you'll come to terms. Girls always do, 
When necessity calls and the way is plain ! 

MABEL 

(With a little sigh, regretfully) 

A man is a man, but too many's too much ! 
A man who's a man, I might love one such; 
Whatever befalls, more woo in vain ! 

ESTHER 
{To Kissem) 

I'd like to hear, if you don't object, 

Some details of yourself and crew. 

That we may know what to expect — 

Just what you are, and what you do. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


77 


SONG—CAPTAIN KISSEM and CHORUS 

I am a pirate, strong and bold. 

The ship I sail is made of gold. 

Captured from Beauty^s tresses; 

And, safely stored within the hold, 

I keep, secure, a wealth untold. 

Hoarded from fair caresses ! 

Many a Ruby, rare, and Pearl, 

Aboard the gay ship "‘Social Whirl,'' 
Unto my fame have added: 

And from the ""Amathystine Girl" 

The royal purple, quartz, and beryl. 
Coffers of mine have padded ! 

I'm at home in my gay ship sailing the bay. 

Or with love-seas rolling under; 

And I steal from the fair the gold of their hair. 
And the ruby lips I plunder ! 

Oh, I capture delight from eyes that are bright. 
While the waist I securely infold ! 


78 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


Fm invincible quite, I conquer by might, 

For 1 am a pirate bold ! 

Chorus. 

He's at home in his gay ship, etc. 

Over the waves of Sweetheart Bay 
I set my sail, in quest of prey 
Promising worthy plunder. 

When I some argosy waylay, 

And find a manikin in the way. 

Pilot and craft I sunder ! 

When on the Sea of Love afloat, 

I reckon not of crew or boat 
Spoiling my speculation; 

The fighting strength of both I note; 

Then capture, and proceed to gloat 
Over my peculation ! 

ENSEMBLE 

Kissem. Crew. Girls and Pilots. 

Fm at home. etc. We're at, etc. They' re at, etc. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


79 


\While singing this ensemble , each Pirate grabs a Girl, 
And swings his captive round the deck in a lively whirl. 
The Sissies, brushed aside, now have no crafts to steer. 
And, looking quite disconsolate, are huddled at the rear,] 

KISSEM 

{After a pause) 

Well, pirates all, 

It's time to call 
On yonder Money Isle. 

The nabobs there have settled down. 

And sleep serene in Money Town. 

In most approved Bolshevik style. 

Relieve them of their hoarded wealth. 

And bring it all aboard by stealth. 

But little trouble you will find. 

Because we've so cajoled the mind 
Of Labor that his slaves believe 
It's for the welfare of the State; 

That each and all will soon receive 
A share of what we separate. 


80 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


Oh, they will blindly follow you, 

And do just what you tell them to ! 

FIRST PIRATE 

If any rich ones dare refuse 
The contribution that we choose. 

We'll call upon our husky Reds 
To whack them on their stingy heads. 

SECOND PIRATE 

Their idle money we require. 

To gratify an old desire. 

KISSEM 

Of what avail to lead the mob; 

To be honest-to-no-one, dyed-in-the-wool 
Bolshevik pirates, on the job; 

To be masters of guile and slingers of bully 
Expert at all sorts of political pull; 

Unless, by our methods of high finance. 

We line our pockets, and have a chance 
Of living well — oh, living high — 

And taking all that we used to buy, 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


81 


Without the need to build defences, 

Like some blighted, 

Poor, benighted 

King of Dollars, against expenses ? 

[With hustle and hustle^ excepting fust two 
And the Captain, exeunt the Crew. 

They lustily sing, in a rythm guile gay, 

A song, which dies out as the boat moves away.] 

CREW 

{Off stage, singing) 

Ye-ho! Ye-ho! Ye-ho! 

Let the long-boat down. 

Ye-ho! Ye-ho! Ye-ho! 

WeYe off to Money Town, 

Ye-ho! 

Ye-ho ! Ye-ho ! Ye-ho ! 

High-living costs are high; 

In Money Town, ye-ho ! 

Our need we will supply, 

Ye-ho ! 


82 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


KISSEM 

(To the Girls) 

Ladies, you had better go 
And spend some time in sleep, below; 
There's nothing like a good night's rest 
To make fair maiden look her best. 

[Obediently the Girls go out; 

AndyOfi stagey as they move about. 

Laughter and prattle do not lack. 

As told by voices drifting back. 

But gradually these sounds die out. 

And perfect silence reigns without. 

Captain Kissem, stroking chin 
Thoughtfully, meantime has been 
Watching them — slantwize. 

Out of the corners of his eyes. 

And while is heard their talk and laughter. 
Still his eyes have followed after; 

But when these are no longer heard. 

He nods and smiles, but speaks no word; 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


83 


Yety by a gesiurey bids the two 
Present members of his Crew 
And Sissy Pilots go away. 

They understandy and soon obey. 

He casts a glance about y toward shore; 

Then brings his gaze to resty once more, 
Toward the quarters of the fairy 
For a moment dwelling there. 

At lengthy as though his fancy* s caught 
The signal of some pleasant thought. 

He softly laughs, begins to pace. 

With a nonchalant and swaggering grace. 
Across the deck, then back again. 

While softly humming the refrain: 

*T*m at home in my gay ship, sailing the bay,** 
Enter Mabel, in pyjamas gay. 

With stealthy, hesitating mien. 

She stops, turns back to edge of scene; 

Then glides forward, half in fear. 

As if scarce knowing why she*s here. 

The Captain has his eyes away. 


84 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


~ He turns; and Mabel, in dismayy 
Makes a sudden^ rapid glide. 

In a vain attempt to hide 
Where thtdeeper shadows drip 
From the structure of the ship. 

But lacking confidence and poise, 

In doing so she makes a noise. 

The Captain evidently hears. 

Alert at once, he keenly peers 
About, and then, relaxing, grins. 

As if a pleasing game begins. 

At length he turns away once more. 
Goes to the rail, observes the shcrre; 
Then, o'er his shoulder with his thumb. 
Beckons the hiding one to come. 

But Mabel, crouching, hesitating 
In the shadows, keeps him waiting.] 


KISSEM 

(Gently) 

Come here. Why thus in shadows hide, 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


85 


When I would have you by my side ? 
[Mabel stirSy hut hesitates.] 

KISSEM 

{More harshly, after a moment) 

Come here ! Have you forsaken sleep 
Merely in shadows thus to creep ? 

[Now Captain Kissem turns about, 
Approaches her; and she steps out. 

Half shyly, from her vain retreat. 

Not yet her eyes his glances meet.] 
MABEL 
{Stammeringly) 

W-why am I here ? I — I scarcely know. 
KISSEM 

{Sarcastically) 

Were you, then, walking in your sleep? 
MABEL 

( Uneasily) 

Perhaps I was. I— I guess Til go. 

[She starts to leave.] 


86 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


KISSEM 

{With finality) 

No! You’ll remain. 

MABEL 

I— I can’t explain — 

KISSEM 

I can. I understand. 

You came because of my command. 

MABEL 

That — that can not be true. 

I heard no such command from you. 

KISSEM 

Can speech alone convey desire ? 

Does wireless need connecting wire? 

I called you by a subtler art, 

That speaks direct from heart to heart. 

MABEL 

I did not know; I did not understand — 
But oh, I felt so queer ! 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


87 


^Twas just as if some powerful, unseen hand, 
Insistant, dragged me here. 

KISSEM 

Well, then, my dear, since you have heard 
The call of my unspoken word. 

Let sweet emotion now hold sway. 

And I will kiss all doubts away, 

[He tries to kiss her; but^ her eyes 
Lighting with a mock surprise^ 

She eludes him, glides away, 

Half in earnest, half in play,] 

DUET— MABEL and CAPTAIN KISSEM 
Mabel. {Coyly) 

Oh, Sir, what are you trying to do ? 

Stop, I say ! Keep away ! Pm afraid of you. 

I have never been kissed by a man; 

Though you’re strong, you are wrong, if you think 
that you can. 


88 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


Kissem. {Following) 

I tell you I carry through 
What I attempt to do. 

Mabel. 

Keep away from me ! 
Kissem. 

Oh, I guess ril have success 
In this kissing business. 

Mabel. 

Such a thing can never be. 
Kissem. 

By my sire ! I acquire 
Whatever I aspire to. 

Mabel. 

Not from me. 

Kissem. 

I shall sip from your lip 
As much as I desire to. 
Mabel. 

We shall see. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


89 


[He tries to catch her, hut in vain; 
And yet he tries and tries again.] 
Mabel. (Laughing mockingly) 

Oh, ha, ha, ha, ha ! Oh, ho, ho, ho, ho ! 
That's the time you missed; 

I will not be kissed ! 

Ah, ha, ha, ha, ha ! 

[He catches her about the waist,] 
Mabel. {With satisfaction) 
0-o-o-o-oh ! 

[Aside:[ 

Who'd have thought Fd like it so ? 

[To him'\ 

Let me go, I say ! 

Take your arm away ! 

Can't you plainly see 
You are hurting me ? 

[ He eases his hold,] 

Mabel. (With increased satisfaction) 
A — a — a — a — ah ! 0 — o — o — o — oh ! 


90 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


[Aside:] 

Hope he will not let me go ! 

[Enter Sissy Pilots and Girls, in 'pyjamas.] 


Mabel. Kissem. 

{Together) 


U-u-u-u-um, u-u-u-u-um ! 
He will show to me 
What a kiss should be. 
U-u-u-u-um, u-u-u-u-um ! 
Something that Pd like 
to know. 


I will teach 
To you, my peach. 
The gentle art of kissing. 
If you ne^er 
Had your share. 
You know not what 
you're missing. 


Kissem. {Kissing her lightly jirst on one 
cheek then on the other) 
[Xiss, kiss.] That's a society kiss. 

Mabel. 

Rather nice. 

But like ice. 

I would kiss 
Like this. [Smack /] 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


91 


Kissem. 

[Kiss, kiss.] That is the kiss that a man 
Gives the girl of his choice — on the lips, if he can. 

CHORUS of GIRLS and SISSY PILOTS 

{Imitating Mabel and Kissem) 

Girls. Pilots. 

U-u-u-u-um, etc. I will teach, etc. 

[Dance, after which exeunt Mabel and Girls.] 
KISSEM 

{After a pause, to Sissy Pilots) 

Begone ! Don't linger here. 

LEADER OF PILOTS 

Please, Captain, don't be too severe. 

In you we find a master hand, 

Who knows the best and surest way 
These wilful fair ones to command. 

So that they must obey. 


92 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


KISSEM 

{Flattered) 

Oh, that is done with greatest ease. 

Just use some strength well mixed with guile — 
A smile, a kiss, a lusty squeeze — 

All done in forceful pirate style. 

The ladies you can never please 
By begging favor on your knees. 

SISSY PILOTS 

The ladies we can never please, etc. 

LEADER OF PILOTS 

We're pilots skilled; we know the bay; 

Yet, somehow, fail the girls to sway. 

The manly art we'd learn from you — 

Pray, Captain, make us pirates, too. 

SISSY PILOTS 

The manly art we'd learn from you, etc. 
KISSEM 

You make me smile. I laugh at you. 

Oh, what mighty deeds you'd do — 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


93 


If you were members of my crew ! 

Ha-ha ! Ha-ha ! And would you, then, 
Your prowess show 
Where pirate flag unfurls ? 

Away ! ’Twere false to call you men. 
Who fawn and cringe. 

Subservient to the girls ! 

[The Sissies seem inclined to pout, 

And, much offended, stragfie out 

Enter Girls, in such attire 
As they^ve been able to acquire 
By rummaging a chest or two 
Belonging to the pirate crew. 

In silence, and with eyes intent — 

As if on daring action bent. 

Result of conference profound — 

Now the Captain they surround.] 


KISSEM 

Ladies, why this demonstration ? 


94 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


GERALDINE 

You’ll find it has a close relation 
To your recent boasting. 

We have heard and understood, 

And have decided that we should 
Provide you with a roasting. 

GIRLS 

Yes; we think ’twill do you good 
To get a gentle toasting. 

KISSEM 

(Scowling) 

What’s this ? A female insurrection ? 
Progressed so far without detection ? 

[As the Girls are marching around, 

A rope appears; the Captain’s bound. 
To escape he vainly toils, 

For he is helpless in its coils. 

To celebrate their victcyry, 

The Girls now dance about in glee.] 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


95 


KISSEM 

{Somewhat subdued, to Mabel) 

My dear, pray tell me, without mincing. 
What mean these efforts so convincing ? 

I know, of course, you've been conniving. 
But fail to see at what you're driving. 

This demonstration, so provoking. 

Must be — but pshaw ! you're only joking. 

MABEL 

(Teasingly) 

Joking ? No ! We have decided 
It's time we women take command. 

[Oratorically:) 

Too long our powers have been derided. 
Too long vain man himself has prided 
That his should be the ruling hand. 

GIRLS 

It's time we women take command, etc. 


96 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


KISSEM 

{Struggling with his bonds) 

You certainly jest; for how can you hope 
With masterful man in such manner to cope ? 

Desist from your nonsense ! This cable unwind ! 

[ He pauses. The Girls pertly toss their heads 
And make emphatic gestures of refusal. 

An angry f sneering smile overspreads 
The Captain’s face, and tones suggestive 
Of a snarl are in his voice as he continues:] 

If you’re really in earnest, much trouble you’ll find 
In what you have started; you can’t see it through. 
Though me you have shackled, look out for my crew 

[Shackles, with blood-thirsty mien 
And limping stride, invades the scene. 

He wears no coat) his head is bare; 

His shirt and trousers show much wear,] 

SHECKLES 

{To himself, as he enters) 

Well, those two are out the way ! 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


97 


Now this Captain I must slay, 

And then — 

ESTHER 

{Surprised) 

Why, Mr. Sheckles ! Is it you ? 

GERALDINE 

It surely is ! 

MABEL 

How came you here ? 

A GIRL 

Do you suppose he had to swim ? 

SHECKLES 

Sheckles ? Yes — whaPs left of him. 

[Pause, looking the Girls over,] 

I thought that I would find you here; 

But whaPs afoot ? Why dressed so queer? 
I almost took you for the crew. 

GERALDINE 

{Conscious of her clothes, hut rather proud of them.) 
These garments ? We pre-empted them 


98 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


As raiment fit for tars pro tern. 

We rule the ship from stem to stern. 

The Captain's bound; the crew's away. 
Before those pirates can return, 

We'll be far out upon the bay. 
KISSEM 
(Disgustedly) 

Fools ! 

ESTHER 

How so ? 

KISSEM 

(Sneeringly) 

You're built to fly — 
Girls naturally are aviators. 
GERALDINE 
(With a toss of her head) 

Well, what of that ? 

KISSEM 

You cannot ply 

The seas; you are not navigators. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


99 


ESTHER 

(Pertly) 

You'll see. 

KISSEM 

(Shaking his head) 

Rash maids! 

MABEL 

(Daringly) 

We'll take the trip ! 
KISSEM 
(Positively) 

Without my aid, you'll sink the ship. 

SHECKLES 

(Slowly and emphatically) 

That aid you'll give. 

KISSEM 

(Explosively) 

No! 

SHECKLES 

(Positively) 


Yes! 


100 THE THRONE OF CUPID 

KISSEM 

Never ! 

SHECKLES 

Your pirate crew is gone forever. 

KISSEM 

WhaPs that ? My crew ? 

SHECKLES 

(Casually) 

In Money Town — 
ESTHER 
(Expectantly) 

You bring good news ? 

KISSEM 

(Anxiously) 

What happened there? 

SHECKLES 

Those whom you duped with so much care 
Have found you out, and cut them down. 
[Threatening :] 

If you would meet a similar fate — 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


101 


MABEL 

{Impulsively) 

Oh, Mr. Sheckles, don't ! Please wait. 

SHECKLES 

{Relaxing and smiling broadly) 

This fair one seems attached to you. 

'Tis well, or I had run you through ! 

[Indicating the Girlsi\ 

Against such as these it's vain to strive; 

Be glad. Sir Captain, you're alive ! 

CHORUS OF GIRLS 

{Triumphantly, with mocking courtesy to the Captain) 
'Gainst such as we you vainly strive; 

Be very glad that you're alive ! 

SONG— MR. SHECKLES and GIRLS 
Sheckles. 

The world may ignore or mistreat you; 

Your sweetheart, love somebody else; 

The one you should conquer may beat you. 

And capture your wampum and pelts; 


102 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


Your friends may cajole and deceive you; 

Whatever 's least wanted, arrive; 

The thing you most cherish may leave you — 
What's that, if you're only alive ? 

Let the world wiggle and waggle 
And haggle and nig^e and naggle, 

While Time, with his hour-glass and scythe. 
Numbers the minutes and reaps them. 
Then into eternity sweeps them — 

What's that, if you're only alive ? 

Girls. 

Let the world wiggle, etc. 

Sheckles. 

Affairs that you think in a muddle 
May seem to be rather than be; 

The fin that's a shark in a puddle 
Is a minnow, perhaps, in the sea. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


103 


All light may seem gone from the heavens, 

Black darkness, in triumph, to thrive; 

All things be at sixes and sevens — 

WhaCs that, if you're only alive ? 

Girls. 

Let the world wiggle, etc. 

[While they sing the last ref rainy 
Exeunt Ladies, dragging with them 
Their reluctant captive — Kissem. 

Esther chooses to remain.] 

ESTHER 

• (To Sheckles) 

What has transpired ? Is the fighting quite through ? 
Tell me what's happened since last I saw you. 

SHECKLES 

The war is past; the fighting, done. 

A mighty victory has been won. 

ESTHER 

What of our friends— what's been the cost ? 


104 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


SHECKLES 

Some have returned — but some are lost. 
ESTHER 

{With more concern) 

What of yourself ? You limp, I see. • 
Have you met adversity ? 

SHECKLES 

(Carelessly) 

My wealth is gone. . . . Beyond recall. . . . 
Those Bolshevists have got it all. 

I went to war. . . . What more to tell ? 
ESTHER 
(Solicitously) 

Your lameness ? 

SHECKLES 

Oh, a piece of shell. 

[ He pauses while his memory strays 
The stirring scenes of recent days. 

His changing countenance reveals 
The pent emotion that he feels — 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


105 


Now tense, now mild, as that which seems 
To cross the vision of his dreams. 

Then, soon, more pleasing thoughts beguile; 
Upon his face appears a smile; 

And, as the present he recalls, 

His voice in softer cadence falls:] 

'Tis nought. . . . My loss is gain; 

For yonder on the bloody plain, 

When night was come, I gazed afar. 

Beheld your eyes in every star, 

And by that vision fair I knew 
An all-consuming love for you. 

ESTHER 

{Happily) 

Ah ! Do I dream ? Or is it real ? 

Dear heart, youVe caught the spark divine 
To light the fire of love's appeal 
Within this heart of mine. 

[ He takes her hands in his. Their eyes 
Respond in mutual, glad surprise.] 


106 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


SHECKLES 

{Rapturously) 

Pm filled with a wonderful, marvelous bliss ! 

No beauty of earth nor of star-lighted skies 
Can fill with the thrill of a joy like this — 

When I gaze, all amaze, in your love-lighted eyes 

DUET— ESTHER and SHECKLES 

Sheckles. 

I searched the earth for treasure. 

The land and sea explored; 

I called on Life to grant me 
Some portion of her hoard; 

I sailed the star-gemmed spaces 
Of Hope's exalted flight; 

I sounded deep, dark places 
Of Disappointment's night. 

And lo, behold. I've found it. 

The thing I sought, the prize — 

A gem beyond my dreaming — 

I've found it in your eyes ! 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


107 


And there I read love's story, 

See love's fair promise rise 

And glow in that rare glory— 

The star-light of your eyes! 

Esther. (With exaltation) 

Let earth, then, pay its tribute. 

Or still retain its gold; 

Let Life grant many favors. 

Or pleasant smiles withold ! 

Could wealth give half the pleasure 
That we to-day attain ? 

True love's the greatest treasure 
That all the worlds contain 1 

Both. 

Ah, yes; at last we've found it. 

The thing we sought, the prize— 

The love-light softly gleaming 
Within each other's eyes ! 


108 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


And now we read love's story, 

And, with a glad surprise, 

Behold its richest glory 
Within each other's eyes ! 

[Enter Captain Kissem, who is no longer tied; 
Andy walking guite sedately y is Mabel by his sidey 
Close followed by the Girls, while Geraldine 
And Sissies enter later on the scene.] 

SHECKLES 

Ah, Captain, I perceive you've found 
A way to get yourself unbound. 

KISSEM 

{Grinning somewhat sheepishly) 

I learned that valor's better part 
Would be to have a change of heart. 

MABEL 

{Blushing) 

Except in one respect. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


109 


KISSEM 

(Gallantly y to Mabel) 

It's plain 

To change complete Fll not attain 
Since your mature, aluring charms 
Have graced the refuge of my arms. 

GERALDINE 

He's sworn to abandon his pirate life, 
And Mabel has promised to be his wife. 
ESTHER 
(To Mabel) 

I'm so glad, dear. Is it true ? 

MABEL 

Quite true. 

SHECKLES 

(Shaking hands with Mabel and Kissem) 
Congratulations, then, are due. 
ESTHER 
(To Kissem) 

I have no doubt your love will be 
More true to her than it was to me. 


110 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


To you? 


To me. 


KISSEM 

ESTHER 

KISSEM 

Pray, when ? 

ESTHER 

KISSEM 


Some time ago. 


You jest. 


ESTHER 

(Teasingly) 

Think so ? 

KISSEM 

Explain. 

ESTHER 

{Shaking her finger at him) 

Ah, you I know. 

KISSEM 

Of course. You've learned to know me here. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


111 


ESTHER 

As Captain Kissem, pirate, yes; 

But you are not what you appear. 

You're Carl, despite this pirate dress. 

SHECKLES 

What is this ! Von Rival ? 

MABEL 

{Beaming on Kissem) 

They are the same. 

ESTHER 
{To Mabel) 

Of course, you should know. But what's the game ? 
Which one is he of the two ? 

[To Kissem:] 

Are you him or are you you ? 

KISSEM 

{Whimsically) 

I'm I. . . . Yet I was he. . . . 

And, since this sudden change of heart. 

The two, I think, are three. . . . 


112 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


But who can tear himself apart ? 

Who analyze his inner soul ? 

Know all the parts that make the whole ? 

Or, knowing, see, with finite vision dim. 

Which are himself, and which, not truly him ? 

[ He pauses, scowls, as one who seeks 
A truant thmghL At length, he speaksi\ 

Well, after all, though mixed in mind. 

To one conclusion Pm inclined ; 

I think we safely may surmise 
That Rival was a mere disguise. 

[The Sissy Pilots and Miss Geraldine have been 
Lolling at the rear since they came in. 

They're gazing, often, toward the shore, 

As if it interests them more, 

And with their mood's in more accord. 

Than what is taking place on board.] 

GERALDINE 

{Calling out to no one in particular) 

A boat ! I see a boat ! 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 

SISSY PILOTS 

{Peering) 

It is ! It's coming here ! 
GERALDINE 
It's full of men. 

[All turn and gaze.] 

GIRLS 

{With suppressed excitement) 

The pirates? 

SHECKLES 

{Reassuringly) 

Have no fear, 

For these are friends. 

ESTHER 

I hope 

You're right. 

TRUE 

{Off stage, as from approaching boat) 
A-hoy! Ship a-hoy! 


113 


114 THE THRONE OF CUPID 

KISSEM 

{Answering) 

A-hoy, there ! 

[To Sissy Pilots:] 

Go forward; catch the rope ! 
[Exeunt Sissy Pilots,] 

GIRLS 

{Joyfully) 

We see them now. 

ESTHER 
One’s Regie True. 
GERALDINE 
{Impulsively) 

Oh, joy ! 

[She blushes,] 

ESTHER 

{Turning quickly, to Geraldine) 

Can it be, my dear, that you 
Are in love with Regie True ? 

[Geraldine has nought to say. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


115 


But, blushing deeper, turns away. 

There is a pause wherein is heard 
The sound of voices, hut no word, 

From off the stage. Then into view 
Come Sissies, Men and Regie True.] 

CHORUS OF GIRLS 

(Graciously) 

Welcome, welcome, gentlemen; 

To our ship we welcome you. 

'Tis a pleasure thus again 
Former friendships to renew. 

CHORUS— TRUE and MEN 

(Bowing) 

Ladies, all the pleasure's ours; 

Just one thing that pleasure mars: 
Girls in gowns possess some powers 
Not retained when clad as tars. 

CHORUS OF GIRLS 

Gentlemen, we quite agree. 

Garments donned to conquer foes 


116 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


Are unfit for friends to see — 

So we'll go and change our clothes. 

[Exeunt all Ladies.] 

TRUE 

{To Sheckles) 

Ah, Mr. Sheckles, don't you know. 

It's good to see you smiling so. 

What is it you're rejoicing o'er ? 

The ending of this beastly war ? 

SHECKLES 

{Confidingly) 

Well, yes, in part. . . . But I must own 
My joy is not in that alone. 

I've won the lady of my choice. 

TRUE 

( Heartily) 

No wonder, then, that you rejoice ! 
Who is the fair one, may I ask. 

In whose endearing smiles you bask ? 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


117 


SHECKLES 

( Hesitatingly) 

I fear 'twill be bad news to you — 

Pve won the girl you used to woo ! 

TRUE 

Esther Darling ? 

SHECKLES 

Yes. 

TRUE 

(Beaming) 

Fm glad. 

SHECKLES 

(Relieved) • 

I feared the news might make you sad. 
TRUE 

(Smiling reminiscenthj) 

Not at all; Fm relieved, don't you know, 
For love, unrequited, soon ceases to grow. 


118 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


SONG— MR. SHECKLES, Mr. TRUE and 
CHORUS of MEN 
True. 

Oh, true love is a rose 
That eventually grows 
And produces its quota of bloom 
Only where it's unslighted, 

Its fragrance requited 
By the heart that receives its perfume. 
Sheckles. 

And the heart of a youth 
Is a garden, forsooth. 

And the smiles of a maiden are seeds; 
Though the seeds germinate, 

'Tis sad to relate. 

They sometimes turn out to be weeds. 

Chorus. 

Oh, the heart of a youth, etc. 

True. 

When the day's work is done. 

Of the ladies which one. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


119 


In your dreams, are you likely to see ? 
lUs twenty to two 
It^s the girl who loves you, 

Not the girl you expect it to be. 

Sheckles. 

Oh, a maid may be fair. 

And her eyes and her hair 
Make you think you're in love. You propose. 
But you get no return. 

And, at last, you discern — 

It's a weed in your heart, not a rose ! 

Chorus. 

Oh, a maid may be fair, etc. 

[Exeunt all hut True.] 

TRUE 

{Going to edge of scene and calling softly) 
Geraldine ! . . . . Geraldine ! 

[Enter Geraldine, properly clad.] 

GERALDINE 

(As she enters, smiling roguishly) 

Calling me, Mr, True ? 


120 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


TRUE 

(Passionately) 

Geraldine, can't you see that Fm madly in love with 
you? 

[Enter Sheckles, Sissy Pilots and Men.] 
GERALDINE 

(In a low voice, glancing about) 

Are you quite sure Fm the one, Mr. True ? 

TRUE 

[Ignoring the presence of others) 

Sure as Fm sure, in this conflict of Mars. 

Yours were the eyes that looked down from the stars. 
Telling my heart that the love that it knew 
Really was turning to, yearning for you. 

[Chattering, but self-possessed. 

Enter Ladies, in their best. 

Ere their merry prattle cease. 

Enter Liberty and Peace.] 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


121 


ESTHER 

{To the Men) 

From Peace and Liberty, at last, 

The chains of bondage have been cast. 

PEACE 

When strife is rife, when Fear's around, 
Alas ! we both are tightly bound. 

LIBERTY 

Nor can be seen by mortal eyes, 

When hatred clouds love's azure skies. 

ESTHER 

So now we know the storm has cleared. 
For in our midst they have appeared. 

GERALDINE 

{To True, as if there had been no interruption) 
How can I know that you love me the best ? 
Love to another you've often professed. 

[The Girls and Men, now grouped in pairs, 
Are busy with their own affairs. 


122 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


And hut slight attention pay 
To what these other lovers say.\ 

DUET— GERALDINE and TRUE 

True. {Indicating Peace and Liberty) 
If I had power to prevail 
On these exalted ones to serve thee, 

Twould scarcely worthy be. 

What would such a power avail ? 

'Twere nothing to the love I offer thee ! 
Geraldine. {Playfully) 

If you such a thing could do, 

Winning such service, 

Fd be very nice to you — 

Why not try ? 

True. 

Ah, yes; Fd try all that and more— 

Fd harness all the stars to draw thee. 

To draw thy love to me; 

Fd sail through space from shore to shore 
To find the love that thou canst give to me ! 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


123 


Geraldine. 

Don't you think that you might find 
Sailing prevailing, 

If you'd sail your ship-of-mind 
Nearer home ? 

True. ( Holding out his hands to her) 
Come, sail with me upon Love's sea. 

Geraldine. ( Half yielding) 

If I consent, where will you take me ? 

True. 

Beyond the Honeymoon. 

Geraldine. {Taking his hands) 

You'll rig our ship with sails of faith ? 

True. (Fondly) 

And with hope load it, if you'll sail with me. 
Geraldine. (Yielding to his embrace) 
Then I'll sail with thee. 

Both, 

On the Sea of Love we'll launch 
Our Ship of Life, dear; 

And true our course we'll steer. 


124 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


That our craft, both fair and staunch, 

May safely bear us. We'll nothing fear. 
Floating past the Honeymoon, 

Upon the Love Sea, 

Our hearts are sure to be 
In perfect tune. 

Then, let us seek the Honeymoon ! 

CHORUS 

On the Sea of Love we'll launch, etc. 

LIBERTY 

( Holding up her torch) 

You all know that Cupid's throne 
Depends on love, on love alone; 

That Mars o'er Cupid shall prevail 
When one generation fail, 

Man and maid, to love and woo. 

And, thus, the love-god's power renew. 
But, now, his power will still endure. 

On his throne he'll sit secure. 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


125 


For a generation more, 

Because you sail the Love Sea o'er. 

PEACE 

( Holding out her arms in a gesture of benediction) 
And now, I, Peace, this blessing give: 
May your love forever live; 

May your vision ever be 
From true hearts, that know to see 
Those glories, from mere eyes concealed, 
That are to love alone revealed ! 

CHORUS 

From every clime and nation. 

From high and lowly station. 

We'll congregate to celebrate 
Our fay's reinstallation. 

With spirits gay, in joyful way. 

Unto this most delightful fay 
We'll render our ovation. 

For though Sir Cupid's said to be 
The god of love on land and sea, 


126 


THE THRONE OF CUPID 


He'd lose his high vocation, 

And, as a god, would soon be through. 
Unless he were installed anew 
By each generation. 

Each man and maid, within the heart. 
Has felt the point of Cupid's dart. 

And knows 'tis bad to live alone; 
Therefore we mate, nor hesitate. 

But gladly go to reinstate 
Sir Cupid on his throne. 

On the Sea of Love we'll launch 
Our Ship of Life; 

And true our course we'll steer. 

That our craft, both fair and staunch. 
May safely bear us. We'll nothing fear. 
Floating past the Honeymoon, 

Upon the Love Sea, 

All hearts must surely be 
In perfect tune. 

Then, let us sail to Honeymoon ! 

The End. 








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